Best Tactical Backpacks of 2023| Review & Buyer’s Guide

Ten Best Tactical Backpacks with quality construction, well-organized storage, and user-friendly ergonomics for unmatched user experience. Tactical backpacks find their origin in the military, but now they are widely used as outdoor and everyday carry backpacks. These backpacks’ highly functional designs and advanced tactical features make them an attractive option for outdoor activities like hunting, cycling, camping, and hiking.

Best tactical backpacks are known for their unique organizational features, rugged construction, comfortable ergonomics, and waterproofing abilities. The tactical backpack can pack more than regular backpacks and also offers superior protection against water and abrasion. If you are looking for the best tactical backpack for everyday or outdoor use, give read this review. After testing dozens of market options, we have filtered out the ten best options for you.

Top 10 Best Tactical Backpacks

1. REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack – Urban Tactical Backpack

REEBOW GEAR is one top-selling tactical backpacks and is rated five stars on Amazon for its incredible price-to-performance ratio. It offers a packing capacity of 40L and is the perfect choice for 3-day outdoor packing. What sets this bag apart from its counterparts is its impressive storage organization. The internal storage of the bag is divided into two compartments.

The heavy-duty, smooth zipper offers uninterrupted access to the main compartment. This division in the central storage lets you organize your stuff the way you want. Plus, the bag’s exterior comes with MOLLE webbing, where you can attach pouches and additional utilities. The bag is also compatible with a hydration bladder and is, therefore, an excellent choice for adventure enthusiasts.

Although it is one of the least expensive tactical backpacks, it doesn’t compromise quality. It features a 600×600 density fabric with waterproof and abrasion-resistant properties. Since the bag is used for military deployment, long-term performance and durability are guaranteed. Finally, we loved the unmatched comfort this bag offers.

With fully padded shoulder straps, a lower-profile hip strap, and a sternum strap, it has a well-balanced profile and is lighter on the body even when fully packed. However, sternum and hip straps are not large enough for big guys and may come out when stretched more than their capacity. Also, on the back, it has fully ventilated mesh padding for maximum breathability and comfort.

Pros

• Competitive price
• Well-balanced profile
• Well-organized storage
• Quality construction

Cons

• Short straps for big guys

REEBOW Gear Military Tactical Backpack combines the best storage organization with quality construction and competitive price, making it one of the best tactical backpacks. We loved the bags’ well-balanced profile and breathable back panel, which keep your energy high even on the most demanding trips.

2. Monoki Military Tactical Backpack – Waterproof Tactical Backpack

If you are looking for a backpack that can carry more weight with minimum wear, buy this military Tactical backpack by Monoki. It is one of the most robust backpacks on the market, with a storage capacity of 40L and a weight holding capacity of 100 pounds. It is one of the most versatile backpacks used in multiple outdoor applications and serves as an everyday backpack for urban missions.

What we found most impressive about the backpack is the storage organization. Central storage is divided into two compartments with separate zippers. One compartment comes with a belt and can be used as a laptop or tablet sleeve. Then there are two exterior pockets, a wide molle webbing, 2 D-rings, water-bottle attachment belts, and much more.

In addition to impressive storage organization, it comes with various accessories like a hydration bottle cover with attaching mechanism, D-ring locks, and flag patches for a ready-to-go experience. The fabric and zipper quality of the bag is rugged, and we love its water-resistant ability.

However, the stitching quality was not good, and after a few weeks, it started coming out, which was pretty disappointing. For maximum comfort and breathability, this bag has a padded back panel and a well-balanced profile. With fully padded and adjustable shoulder straps and a waist belt, this backpack feels like nothing to your body and is a great choice for tactile applications.

Pros

• Impressive packing capacity
• Adjustable shoulder and waist straps
• Comprehensive attachment mechanism
• Competitively priced

Cons

• Unreliable Stitching quality

Monoki Tactical Backpack is a real winner regarding packing capacity and versatility. This is one of the few tactical backpacks under $50, offering a massive storage capacity and a comprehensive exterior attachment mechanism.

3. 24BattlePack Tactical Backpack – Best Military Bag

While trying out dozens of tactical backpacks, we found this backpack unbeatable in terms of versatility and dependability. 24BattlePack features a traditional backpack design with plenty of interior and exterior storage options. This backpack can pack much more than backpacks of similar sizes and profiles. It has expandable storage with a capacity of 20L to 40L. With the help of side compression straps, you can adjust the bag’s storage capacity. Therefore bag serves as a regular urban carry backpack and can be used as a 2-3 day assault backpack.

The central storage features a padded laptop sleeve and hook-and-loop mechanism for perfect gear organization.  Like any traditional tactical backpack, it also exhibits compatibility with hydration bladders and features a comprehensive modular attachment mechanism.

Also, you get a quick access zipper pocket to store smaller items like phones, hands-free, and cards on the exterior. The bag comes with a waterproof coating outside and waterproof lining for the interior, making it an excellent choice for everyday and outdoor use.

In addition to premium construction quality, its highly breathable back panel, padded shoulder strap, and waist belt make it highly comfortable without limiting its functionality and packing capacity. However, the gas shoulder and waist strap are too short for big and tall guys, which is the major issue with this bag.

Pros

• Waterproof construction
• Adjustable storage
• Traditional tactical features
• Integrated laptop storage

Cons

• Short straps

24BattlePack offers every feature from storage organization to modular attachment and waterproof construction that you can expect from a high-quality tactical backpack. Its traditional tactical ergonomics, dependable design, and fully padded back panel make it perfect for outdoor adventures.

4. 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack – Mens Tactical Backpack

If you are not concerned about the budget and looking for the best quality and ergonomics, invest in this high-profile tactical backpack. 5.11 RUSH 72 military backpack is rated five stars on Amazon and is one of the best-selling products of 2022.

The bag boasts 1000D nylon waterproof construction and a 55-liter packing capacity helps it stand out as one of the best tactical backpacks. What sets this bag apart from others is its simple and unique design. The central storage of the backpack is divided into two zipper compartments. Inside these compartments, you get padded panels and loops to secure your various essentials the way you want.

The bag’s exterior is loaded with MOLLE webbing for maximum gear and pouch attachment. In addition to this, you will get a separate hydration compartment and mesh pocket to keep your items at quick access. Being one of the most expensive tactical backpacks on the market, this bag offers unmatched durability. It features the industry’s best 1000-D nylon construction coupled with waterproof and abrasion-resistant coatings. Plus, it promises long-term performance and will not let you down even in the most challenging conditions.

To ensure comfort and breathability, it is equipped with a fully padded back panel and shoulder straps. You can adjust the shoulder and sternum straps to make them fully compatible with your body size. Moreover, the side compression straps let you increase or decrease the storage capacity depending on your packing needs.

Pros

• Premium construction quality
• 55-liter storage capacity
• Well Balanced profile
• Adjustable shoulder and waist straps

Cons

• Pricey

5. 11 RUSH72 is one of the largest tactical backpacks on the market, and it packs much more than its original capacity. Also, it offers the most durable construction quality and promises long-term performance offering the highest value for money.

5. Maxpedition Falcon-II Backpack – Outdoor Tactical Backpacks

Maxpedition Falcon-II backpack combines the awe-inspiring organization features with premium construction quality to make it a complete package for outdoor enthusiasts. The bag boasts a 1050-D Cordura nylon construction and a completely waterproof coating making it one of the standout backpacks on the market.

To begin with its storage organization, we loved the two main storage compartments featuring a self-healing heavy-duty zipper. The main storage compartment can pack up to 23 liters and comes with a loop-hook mechanism: the loops and hooking mechanism and internal padding help secure items like laptops and tablets.

Plus, there are plenty of exterior storage options like pockets, MOLLE webbing, PALS webbing. You can attach add-ons and pouches to a comprehensive molle panel on the sides and front of the bag. Two exterior zipper pockets offer quick access to smaller items. Moreover, the side compression straps are really helpful to adjust the size of the bag for a more comfortable experience.

The bag also features adjustable shoulder straps and a fully padded back panel for a body-hugging fit. Although it is a bit overpriced considering its packing capacity, it justifies its price tag by offering premium construction quality. 1050-D nylon fabric coupled with waterproof and abrasion-resistant coating gives you the confidence to explore unpredictable environments.

Pros

• 1050-D nylon construction
• Impressive storage organization
• Plenty of modular attachment points

Cons

• Poky for multi-day packing

Buy Maxpedition Falcon-II tactical backpack with complete confidence since it features the industry’s best construction quality. It is an ideal everyday carry backpack and a great option for single-day outdoor adventures and short trips.

6. MYSTERY RANCH 2-Day Assault Backpack

If you don’t want to weigh yourself down on hiking and other challenging adventures, try this lightweight and compact backpack by Mystery Ranch. It is a 2-day backpack that will cover your everyday needs and accompany you on the most demanding adventures. The bag comes with the best organizational features, and its 30L capacity is divided very well.

With a durable signature zipper opening, you will get the main compartment. It’s a quick-access compartment with plenty of space for larger items. Plus, there is an integrated fully padded laptop sleeve and MOLLE webbing for additional gear on the outside.

Also, the bag is compatible with water bladders giving you extra space to carry more on the go. But what actually made me a fan of Mystery Ranch 2 is the comfort and cushion it offered. With its fully padded shoulder straps and removable hip support, that bag cuddles up to your body for an untiring experience.

This backpack is made with a high-quality 500-denier Cordura fabric. It is a field-tested material that offers unmatched ruggedness and durability for long-term performance. The material is thick enough to resist initial water splashes, but unfortunately, it is not fully waterproof.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact
• Stylish urban design
• Rugged construction
• Impressive storage organization
• Removable lumbar support
• Compatible with water bladders

Cons

• Not waterproof
• Expensive

Mystery Ranch 2 Assault Backpack is designed for everyday urban missions, but its tactical profile will not let you down on outdoor adventures. Despite having a very compact profile, the bag can load much more than its capacity and offer long-term performance.

7. Red Rock Outdoor Gear Backpack

Next on our list is the Red Rock Outdoor gear backpack. It is a competitively priced backpack with a maximum packing capacity of 35 liters and impressive storage organization. We loved this bag’s simple design and well-balanced profile, making it equally suitable for everyday and outdoor use.

The bag’s central storage comes with a removable divider and hooks paneling, allowing you to organize and secure your essentials in a customized manner. Plus, the bag has exterior pockets for string essentials at quick access. Also, the MOLLE webbing lets you attach pouches and gear and enhances the overall packing capacity of the bag.

The back panel is fully padded which offers support for your back, and also ensures breathability. Also, there is an integrated hydration bladder compartment in the back panel. For a well-balanced profile and maximum stability, it comes with adjustable shoulder straps and side compression straps. You can adjust the compression straps to increase or decrease the storage of capacity of the bag.

The waist belt offers an untiring experience during challenging adventures like hiking. The bag uses 500-D Cordura construction with a waterproof coating. However, with the use of a few weeks, the waterproof coating began to peel off, and stitches came out. The bag is available in various colors and tactical designs and offers clad fasteners for quick strap adjustment.

Pros

• Removable storage dividers
• Decent design
• Adjustable straps
• The fully padded back panel
• Compatible with hydration bladder

Cons

• A bit overpriced
• Unreliable waterproof coating

Red Rock Outdoor gear backpack is an excellent choice for people who haul heavy loads in changing weather and environment. With its impressive storage organization and comprehensive modular attachment mechanism, this bag lets you pack more than its capacity.

8. 5.11 Tactical AMP12 Essential Backpack

5.11 Tactical AMP12 Essential Backpacks feature modern tactical ergonomics and a lightweight profile. Despite a very compact profile, this bag can outperform larger bags when it comes to packing capacity and modular attachment mechanism. The overall packing capacity of the bag is 25L and it is an ideal everyday carry backpack or a 2-day assault backpack.

The main storage is divided into two compartments. The bag’s interior is equipped with hook-and-loop webbing that lets you secure your laptops and other essentials in an organized way. The exterior of the bag has an innovative HEX GRID load-bearing system. Unlike traditional stitched molle webbing, this bag lets you attach pouches and gear in a more accessible and organized manner.

The best part is that you can remove the HEX GRID load-bearing panel when not needed. Although it is an expensive bag, its premium construction quality justifies its price tag. It uses 1000-D Cordura fabric with a special waterproof coating and abrasion-resistant abilities. So if you travel with constantly changing weather and environments, this is the sturdiest construction you can find.

Moreover, it uses self-healing heavy-duty zippers offering smooth and quick access to the gear. Finally, we loved the comfort and stability the bag offers. Its lightweight and compact profile coupled with contoured and adjustable shoulder straps offer unmatched comfort and functionality even in challenging conditions.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact
• HEX GRID modular panel
• Premium construction quality
• Well-organized storage

Cons

• Very expensive

AMP12 essential tactical backpack features a functional design and user-friendly ergonomics, making it one of the best tactical backpacks. If you are looking for a waterproof tactical backpack for challenging outdoor conditions, it is a highly recommended option.

9. Hazard 4 Plan-B Tactical Backpack

Hazard 4 Plan-B Tactical Backpack is probably the only backpack under $100 offering 1000-D Cordura construction. The bag comes in a compact profile with a minimalist design and is, therefore, an excellent choice for everyday urban use. The bag’s overall packing capacity is around 20 liters, but its modular attachment mechanism lets you pack more than this.

The storage space is divided into two smaller and one main zipper compartment. The main compartment can be divided further by a removable padded divider. It allows you to customize the storage area according to packing needs. Exterior pockets are at quick access and you can store your personal essentials here.

Also, the MOLLE back and side panel is ideal for add-ons and additional gear attachments. The bag is also fully compatible with a hydration reservoir, making it ideal for single-day outdoor trips. For equal weight distribution and higher probability, this bag comes with a comprehensive mechanism of adjustable straps.

Padded shoulder straps and waist belts are adjustable, offering a body-hugging fit for maximum comfort. Also, the bag has adjustable side tarps that let you cut down the extra space when the bag is not fully loaded. Since this backpack features 1000-D nylon construction you can expect it to perform for ages. It is 100% waterproof and offers incredible resistance against impact and abrasion.

Pros

Lightweight and compact
Competitively priced
1000D rugged construction
Stylish design

Cons

Limited storage capacity-20 liters

Hazard 4 Plan-B tactical backpack is an excellent choice for an everyday carry a backpack and serves best for 1-day outdoor adventures. With its superior construction quality and inspiring organizational features, this bag can outperform many expensive tactical bags on the market.

10. Eberlestock X2 Backpack For Hunting

Eberlestock X2 Backpack is mainly designed for hunting but it also serves as one of the best outdoor and everyday carry backpacks. This backpack is fully compatible with the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and offers impressive ergonomics to help you get out of the most demanding situations.

The most standout feature of the bag is its weight-loading capacity. The bag’s interior compartments are fully compatible with rifles and hunting shotguns. Plus, it lets you haul heavy loads quite quickly. You can expand the storage capacity of the bag with adjustable side straps. Plus the bag’s exterior has integrated storage for two hydration bladders, and plenty of PALS and MOLLE webbing for additional gear attachment.

Also, you get exterior pockets for storing hunting or personal essentials with quick access. In addition to impressive storage organization, this bag offers the most rugged waterproof construction. With a 1000D microsuede construction and high-quality zippers and buckles, it promises long-term performance. Also, the bag has a waterproof lining and coating allowing you to explore nature with full confidence.

Since it’s a unique backpack with a  tabular frame and an integrated seat, you can carry the extra load with this bag. Although it’s a large backpack, we found it pretty easy to carry even when fully packed. With fully padded shoulder straps and waist belts, these bags ensure equal weight distribution for an untiring hunting experience.

Pros

• Premium waterproof construction
• Impressive weight-holding capacity
• Adjustable side straps

Cons

• Limited storage size-30L

Eberlestock X2 backpack is a professional-grade backpack that is designed to meet the needs of serious outdoor enthusiasts. The unique profile of the bag and ability to haul heavy loads sets this backpack apart from regular backpacks on the market.

Buying Guide

Tactical backpacks are now widely used for non-military purposes and are available in a wide range of styles, colors, and sizes. With so many options on the market, it is not easy to pick out the tactical bag that suits you best in size and performance. To help you out, we have discussed the key features you must consider while buying a new tactical backpack. This information will help you calculate your needs and also figure out the industry’s best designs and materials.

Size

Tactical bags are available in a wide range of sizes, and the packing capacity is measured in Litres. To find the right size of the bag, it is ideal to calculate your packing needs first. If you are buying a bag for everyday urban use, a bag with a storage capacity of 20-25 liters would be an ideal choice. However, for multi-day assault packing, you should look for bags offering a storage capacity between 30-40 liters.

Also, you can find bags offering expandable and adjustable sizes. These bags feature side compression straps allowing you to adjust the size according to your packing needs. These bags are equally useful for everyday urban missions, traveling, and multi-day assault packing.

Construction Quality

Tactical bags are supposed to be rugged enough to withstand challenging outdoor conditions and everyday impact. Therefore construction quality is one of the most important factors to consider. The popular fabric choices for tactile bag construction are Nylon, Cordura, Oxford, and Polyester.

Oxford Fabric

Oxford Polyester fabric is a lightweight fabric and is known for its waterproofing and abrasion-resistant abilities. This fabric is rugged enough to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions and is ideal for tactical backpacks and tenets.

Nylon Fabric

500-1000D nylon fabrics are widely used in tactical products like bags, tents, and tactical vests. It is the most expensive but durable fabric used in tactical bags. These fabrics offer impressive weatherproofing and are a great choice for serious outdoor activities like hiking and hunting.

Cordura Fabric

Cordura fabric is also a variety of nylon that is used to make lightweight and durable tactical vests and deployment backpacks. Since it’s a lightweight material, it is a great choice for people looking for a tactical backpack for everyday use. The sturdiness of material used in tactical bags is measured in denier.

The higher denier means a high ability to resist abrasion and impact. To be on the safer side, it is advised to buy bags offering at least 500-denier construction. If you are looking for the best construction quality, it is ideal for sticking with 700D and above fabrics. Additional features you should consider in construction quality are the quality of zippers and padding inside the bag. It is ideal to look for smooth and heavy-duty zippers for easy access and long-term performance.

Storage Organization

The packing capacity of the bag largely depends on the storage organization of the bag. You should always look for a bag that has well-organized storage. Separate sleeves for laptops, compatibility with hydration bladders, and quick-access external pockets are critical features to be considered.

To make your bag even more versatile, it is ideal to look for removable dividers. These dividers let you divide the space into multiple compartments depending on your packing needs. Another essential factor of the tactical bags is MOLLE webbing (Modular Light-Weight Load-Carrying Equipment) or PALS webbing (Pouch Attachment Ladder System). These features enhance the packing capacity of the bag and let you organize your essentials in different pouches. These pouches are attached for quick access to your personal essentials like glasses, phones, cards, etc.

Pack Panel

Back panel construction and profile are essential for comfort, especially when you carry a large backpack. It is critical to have padded support when you carry a fully loaded backpack; otherwise, the stuff in your back would directly press against your back. Without padded support, your back will hurt when you walk with a fully loaded backpack.

The second thing that counts is sweating and breathability. When you walk with a fully loaded backpack, your back begins to sweat. Without proper air circulation and breathability, you feel very uncomfortable and especially in summer. So, keeping these factors in mind, you should look for a fully padded back panel with lumbar support to maximize comfort and breathability.

Portability

Tactical backpacks are known for their impressive loading and weight-holding capacities, and therefore portability is the major concern of users. If you are interested in outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, or hunting, you should look for a bag having a well-balanced profile and user-friendly ergonomics.

Good tactical backpacks come with adjustable shoulder and waist straps offering a body-hugging fit. Waist straps aid in equal weight distribution and give you an untiring experience. Also, you should look for side compression straps. These straps will help you punch down the size of the bag when not fully loaded and enhance the balance of the backpack. Another important feature is sternum straps. These waist belts cut down some weight from your shoulders and improve your overall experience with the backpack.

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FAQs

Wrapping Up

We can safely conclude that tactical bags, with their unique storage organization and military-grade construction, offer the best value for your hard-earned money. All the products on our list are tested for performance and quality and are equally useful for everyday and outdoor use.

Our top-three picks from the list are

• REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack for its competitive price, impressive packing capacity, premium construction quality, and well-balanced profile
• Monoki Military Tactical Backpack for its 1000-D construction quality, adjustable storage capacity, user-friendly ergonomics, and competitive price
• 24BattlePack Tactical Backpack for its military-grade waterproof construction, comprehensive MOLLE webbing, and fully padded back panel

Storage organization and waterproof construction are two critical features of a tactical backpack. It is advised to go with backpacks offering well-organized storage space with plenty of pockets and attachment points.